Avoid getting stuck in a line like this
One of the more unexpected results of Hurricane Sandy is lengthy lines at the pump. In order to save time (and your sanity), follow these tips to stretch the gas in your tank. It's easier thank you think!
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1. Ease up on the pedals
Don't accelerate quickly or use a heavy foot when driving and try not to ride your break pedal, either. Both of these habits reduce your fuel-efficiency.
2. Use cruise control
Traveling at a constant speed is more fuel-efficient than fluctuating, so if you're driving on a road that lends itself to using the cruise control take advantage of the situation.
3. Obey the speed limit
Driving faster may you get you there quicker, but obeying the speed limit will help you avoid long lines at the gas station because higher speeds require more gas.
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4. Travel lightly
A lighter car will yield better fuel-efficiency, so clear out your trunk and you'll be able to wait a little longer before filling up again.
5. Carpool
This one may be hard if you don't live near anyone you work with, but you can also carpool with neighbors on grocery shopping and other errands-just be sure you all rotate turns or someone will be filling up quicker than they thought!
6. Check your air pressure
When your tires are all filled to the same pressure, your car will drive more evenly and you'll use less gas than if your tires aren't balanced.
7. Don't idle
While it may seem like the better (and in the cold weather, warmer) option, idling while waiting in the long gas lines may cause you to run out of fuel faster. And since many gas lines are several hours long you'll use more fuel by idling than turning your car on and off to move a few inches.
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How have you been conserving your gas tank?
Photo Credit: Flickr/blmurch
